How to get your dog to sleep

It’s no secret that dogs love to snooze. Just like us, our pets can become grumpy and agitated if they don’t get enough sleep. On average, our pawed friends can sleep for around an impressive fourteen hours a day, although this dozing is broken down into lots of short naps.

The amount of nap time can vary according to age and breed, and can even come down to factors like your pet’s personality. Larger breeds, such as Newfoundlands and Saint Bernards, can sometimes rest for up to an astonishing eighteen hours a day.

Though nobody knows why dogs require so much sleep, there’s some sound advice on the curious sleeping habits of your pet in this dog sleep behaviour post. In the majority of cases, dogs quickly settle in to a healthy sleeping pattern after moving to a new home. But some puppies and older dogs require a little more work and training. The constant whining of a needy pup is enough to drive anyone crazy, particularly if it’s affecting your own shut eye.

If you’re keen to find out how to get your dog to sleep, there’s plenty of advice available online. The first step is to identify the problem. Sometimes rescue dogs can find the transition to a new home traumatic, particularly if they’ve been abandoned or abused in their past. If you suspect the problem is physiological rather than psychological, it may be a good idea to chat the problem through with your vet for advice.

For some puppies, small changes can help ensure a good night’s rest. Firstly, make sure you have a warm bean bag and a blanket for your dog bed, as well as a clock that makes a reassuring, rhythmic ticking sound. Products like a puppy sleeping aid are meant to remind your puppy of their mother’s heartbeat, and will therefore help them calm down for rest when placed under their sleeping cushion.

Alternatively, if your dog is sleeping in a kennel or crate rather than a dog bed, make sure they are used to this environment before encouraging them to sleep there. Even minor changes to a daily routine can be unsettling for your pet, so it’s important that they’re comfortable in their surroundings.

Some dogs won’t sleep unless they get enough exercise. It’s vital that your canine friend gets two walks on a daily basis, though the distance really depends on the breed. Just like us, if your dog’s exhausted after a long country ramble, they’ll be out like a light.

A comfortable dog bed is another essential for a peaceful night’s sleep. Pets Pyjamas have some great options available, as well as a selection of colourful and cosy blankets for dog beds. These will ensure your pooch stays snuggled up all night long. What’s more, dog blankets can help contain dog hair to the bed, leaving you with one fewer household chore.

Some dogs prefer not to sleep in their dog bed, no matter how comfortable you make it. Another favourite place to curl up is often the pet owner’s bed, just watch out you don’t find yourself pushed out of bed by your own pooch!